As a busy parent, finding quick, tasty meals for the family can be tough. That’s why I’m excited to share this buffalo chicken tenders recipe with you. These crispy, spicy tenders are great for game days or weeknight dinners.
This recipe stands out because of its unique cooking method. It makes the chicken crispy on the outside and juicy inside. Using Frank’s RedHot Original Hot Sauce adds a real spicy buffalo sauce taste.
Looking for a comforting quick and easy meal or a crispy chicken tenders dish to impress? This recipe is perfect. Let’s explore how to make the best buffalo chicken tenders at home.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love These Homemade Buffalo Chicken Tenders
Make your game day spread unforgettable with these homemade buffalo chicken tenders. They are crispy on the outside and juicy inside. These tenders are a hit, perfect for those who love spicy, flavorful game day snacks.
Perfect for Game Day Gatherings
Hosting a watch party or just want a tasty appetizer idea? Try these buffalo chicken tenders. Their classic Buffalo wing taste is perfect for any crowd-pleasing dishes spread.
Restaurant-Quality at Home
Get restaurant-quality taste at home with this easy recipe. The perfect mix of crispy breading and bold Buffalo sauce makes these tenders a hit. They’re a budget-friendly choice for your next gathering.
Budget-Friendly Option
Enjoying a top-notch game day snack doesn’t have to cost a lot. This recipe for homemade buffalo chicken tenders is affordable. It lets you satisfy your cravings without spending too much.
Essential Ingredients for Buffalo Chicken Tenders Recipe
To make the perfect Frank’s RedHot Original Hot Sauce chicken tenders, you need a few important ingredients. Start with boneless, skinless chicken tenderloins or breasts, cut into long strips. These will be coated in a crunchy breading of flour, eggs, and panko breadcrumbs.
The recipe’s heart is the Buffalo flavor. Mix Frank’s RedHot Original Hot Sauce with melted butter or ghee. This sauce adds a tangy, slightly sweet kick. It’s balanced by a creamy finish. Add garlic powder, paprika, and Italian seasoning to the breading for extra flavor.
Want a healthier option? Use boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead. They stay juicy and tender. The crunchy breading and spicy sauce still pack a flavorful punch.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Chicken tenderloins or breasts, cut into strips | 350g |
| Frank’s RedHot Original Hot Sauce | As needed |
| All-purpose flour | As needed |
| Eggs, beaten | As needed |
| Panko breadcrumbs | 250g |
| Garlic powder | 2 teaspoons |
| Paprika | As needed |
| Italian seasoning | As needed |
| Butter or ghee, melted | As needed |
These ingredients come together for the ultimate Frank’s RedHot Original Hot Sauce chicken tenders. They have a crispy outside and a juicy, flavorful inside. Get ready to wow your friends and family with this homemade Buffalo favorite.
Kitchen Tools and Equipment Needed
To make these tasty buffalo chicken tenders, you’ll need some basic kitchen tools and equipment. The items you need might change a bit based on how you cook them.
Air Fryer vs. Traditional Frying
If you choose to use an air fryer, you’ll need the air fryer itself. You’ll also need tongs or a spatula to handle the chicken tenders. The air fryer cooks the chicken fast and healthily, making it crispy without too much oil.
On the other hand, if you like traditional frying, you’ll need a big skillet or pot. You’ll also need a thermometer to keep an eye on the oil’s temperature. This method needs more attention but can make the chicken very crispy.
Essential Prep Tools
- Cutting board and sharp knife for preparing the chicken
- Shallow dishes or bowls for the dredging station
- Whisk or fork for mixing the breading ingredients
- Tongs or a slotted spoon for handling the breaded chicken
Serving Equipment
For serving, you’ll need a big mixing bowl to toss the chicken in buffalo sauce. A serving platter or plate will make your dish look great for your guests.
With the right tools and equipment, you can make perfectly crispy and flavorful buffalo chicken tenders in your kitchen.
Secret Tips for Extra Crispy Coating
Getting a crispy coating on your homemade fried chicken tenders is all about the right breading techniques. A secret is to use panko breadcrumbs instead of regular ones. Panko’s airy, crunchy texture gives a crispiness that regular breadcrumbs can’t.
Another tip? Add hot sauce to your egg wash. This adds a buffalo flavor and helps the breading stick better. Also, make sure to dry your chicken well before coating. This helps the breading crisp up perfectly.
For a gluten-free and low-carb option, skip the breading. Instead, toss your chicken in a spice mix. Adding cornstarch to the spices can make the exterior crispy without breading.
| Breading Technique | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Use Panko Breadcrumbs | Airy, crunchy texture for ultimate crispiness |
| Add Hot Sauce to Egg Wash | Enhances buffalo flavor and helps breading adhere |
| Thoroughly Dry Chicken | Prevents excess moisture for crispier coating |
| Use Spice Mixture without Breading | Gluten-free and low-carb option with crispy exterior |
With these tips, you’ll make the crispiest, tastiest fried chicken tenders at home. Impress your family and friends with your breading techniques and crispy chicken coating skills.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Getting the chicken tenders right is key for crispy, flavorful buffalo chicken. Follow these steps to make restaurant-quality chicken at home:
Preparing the Chicken
Begin by drying the chicken tenders with paper towels. This removes excess moisture. Then, season the tenders with salt, pepper, and spices to boost the flavor.
Breading Process
- Prepare a dredging station with three shallow dishes. One for all-purpose flour, one for a beaten egg wash (with hot sauce), and one for panko breadcrumbs or crushed Cheez-It crackers.
- Coat each chicken piece in flour, then shake off excess. Next, dip it in the egg wash, letting the extra drip off.
- Lastly, coat the chicken in the breadcrumb mix, pressing gently to stick.
Cooking Methods
For traditional frying, heat 1/2 inch of oil in a large skillet over medium-high. Add the breaded chicken tenders and cook for 4-5 minutes on each side, until golden and crispy.
For air frying, preheat your air fryer to 375°F. Place the breaded chicken in a single layer in the basket. Cook for 6 minutes, flip, and cook for another 4-6 minutes, until the chicken is 165°F inside.
Whether frying or air frying, finish the chicken in a preheated oven at 400°F for 5-10 minutes. This ensures they’re cooked through and the coating is crispy.
Making the Perfect Buffalo Sauce
Make your homemade buffalo chicken tenders even better with a tasty buffalo sauce. This sauce is a mix of hot sauce and melted butter. It’s spicy and creamy. Start by mixing 2/3 cup of Frank’s RedHot Original Hot Sauce with 1/2 cup of unsalted butter in a saucepan over medium heat.
Whisk in 2 tablespoons of white vinegar, 1/2 teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce, 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper, and 1/8 teaspoon of garlic powder as the butter melts. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes. Stir occasionally until it thickens and the flavors blend well.
This buffalo sauce is keto-friendly with 0 carbs per serving. For a thicker sauce, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of warm water. Then, whisk it into the sauce.
You can store this sauce in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a month. It’s great for adding heat to your meals. The recipe makes 8 servings, with each serving having about 105 calories. It’s rated 4.49 out of 5 by 168 votes, showing it’s a hit.
Want to try something different? Make it vegetarian by swapping Worcestershire sauce for a vegan version or a mix of lemon juice, soy sauce, and sugar. You can adjust the sauce to fit your taste, making it perfect for your spicy chicken tenders or other dishes.
Serving Suggestions and Dipping Sauces
No buffalo chicken tenders feast is complete without the perfect accompaniments. Elevate your dining experience by pairing these crispy, flavorful tenders with classic pairings and creative side dishes.
Classic Pairings
The quintessential classic pairings for buffalo chicken tenders include a selection of fresh celery sticks and your choice of ranch dipping sauce or blue cheese dressing. The cool, creamy dressings provide a delightful contrast to the bold, spicy buffalo flavor.
Creative Side Dishes
- Serve the buffalo chicken tenders on a bed of crisp coleslaw for a refreshing crunch.
- Accompany the tenders with a side of fluffy potato wedges or crispy fries for a satisfying and filling meal.
- For a healthier option, pair the tenders with a fresh garden salad dressed in a buffalo ranch dressing or buffalo blue cheese dressing.
The versatility of buffalo chicken tenders allows you to customize the dining experience to suit your preferences and the occasion. Whether you’re hosting a game day gathering or enjoying a family dinner, these delectable tenders will be the star of the show.
Storage and Reheating Guidelines
Proper storage and reheating are key to enjoying your homemade Buffalo chicken tenders later. Follow these simple steps to keep your leftovers crispy and flavorful.
Storing Leftover Tenders
- Keep leftover buffalo chicken tenders in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days.
- Freeze cooked tenders without sauce for up to a month for longer storage.
Reheating Techniques
When reheating, use these methods to keep the tenders crispy:
- Air Fryer: Reheat at 375°F for a few minutes until hot and crispy.
- Oven: Place tenders on a baking sheet and reheat at 350°F for 10-15 minutes.
Don’t microwave the tenders to avoid a soggy coating.
Meal Prep Tips
For meal prep, marinate chicken in buffalo sauce overnight. Store it in the fridge. This enhances the flavors, making the tenders more delicious when cooked.
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving | % Daily Value |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 335kcal | – |
| Protein | 37g | 74% |
| Carbohydrates | 7g | 2% |
| Saturated Fat | 7g | 44% |
| Cholesterol | 131mg | 44% |
| Sodium | 1310mg | 57% |
| Potassium | 685mg | 20% |
| Vitamin C | 17mg | 21% |
| Iron | 1mg | 6% |
Conclusion
This homemade buffalo chicken tenders recipe is a tasty and simple alternative to restaurant versions. It’s perfect for game day, family dinners, or as a crowd-pleasing appetizer. The recipe lets you adjust the flavor and cooking method to your liking, making it great for many occasions.
The recipe is also good for those watching their diet, being low-carb, sugar-conscious, and keto-friendly. It’s easy to follow, with clear instructions and tips to get that perfect crispy and spicy taste. Try making this recipe at home and enjoy the taste of restaurant-quality appetizers in your kitchen.
Looking for a classic buffalo taste or want to try something new? This recipe is a delicious and satisfying choice. It’s sure to be a hit at your next gathering or family meal, becoming a new favorite.